This Ham and Egg Casserole is a warm and comforting dish that’s super easy to whip up! It combines eggs, ham, and cheese, all baked together for a tasty breakfast or brunch treat.
Who doesn’t love a meal that’s all in one dish? It’s perfect for lazy weekends when you want something delicious without too much fuss. I like to serve it with toast for a complete meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Eggs: These are the star of the dish! While large eggs are ideal, you can substitute with medium eggs if needed. Keep in mind that the texture might slightly change.
Ham: Diced cooked ham adds great flavor. If you prefer, turkey ham or even cooked sausage can work as alternatives. Just ensure they’re cooked before adding.
Cheddar Cheese: I use shredded cheddar for its melting qualities. Feel free to swap with Monterey Jack, Swiss, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Cream cheese can also be an alternative for a creamier texture.
Milk: Whole milk provides richness, but you can use any milk you have on hand. Almond, soy, or oat milk are good dairy-free options.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess and helps with texture. Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute or skip it if you don’t have it, just increase the milk slightly.
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Sets Perfectly?
The key to a well-set casserole is to balance the egg mixture and cooking time. Here are some tips:
- Whisk the eggs thoroughly for a fluffy texture.
- Make sure to preheat the oven; a hot oven helps set the eggs evenly.
- Check for doneness with a knife in the center until it comes out clean, which indicates the eggs are fully cooked.
- If it’s browning too quickly, you can cover the dish loosely with foil to prevent burning.
Letting it sit for a few minutes after baking helps it firm up and makes slicing easier. Enjoy your cooking!
Ham And Egg Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives or green onions (optional, for garnish)
- Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Ham and Egg Casserole takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 35-40 minutes to bake. Total time is approximately 50 minutes, give or take. It’s a quick and easy dish that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, lightly grease a 9×9-inch baking dish with cooking spray or a bit of butter. This will prevent the casserole from sticking.
2. Mix the Egg Base:
In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until everything is well combined. Make sure there are no lumps!
3. Add the Good Stuff:
Now, stir in the diced ham and 1 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese into the egg mixture. This is where the flavor really starts to come together!
4. Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the egg and ham mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so that it cooks evenly. Then, sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese on top. Cheese makes everything better!
5. Bake It!
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the casserole is set and the top is nice and golden brown. If you insert a knife into the center, it should come out clean.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. This will make it easier to serve. If you like, garnish with chopped fresh chives or green onions for a splash of color and flavor. Enjoy warm, with a side of salsa or hot sauce if desired!
Dig in and enjoy your hearty and cheesy Ham and Egg Casserole!
Can I Use Egg Whites Instead of Whole Eggs?
Yes, you can use egg whites to make this casserole lighter. For each whole egg you replace, use two egg whites. Just remember that the texture might be slightly different, but it will still taste delicious!
How Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture and pour it into the baking dish the night before. Cover and refrigerate; then bake it in the morning. Just allow for a few extra minutes in the oven, as it will be colder when you start baking.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you’re looking for a different protein or want a vegetarian option, cooked sausage, bacon, or even diced vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can be used instead. Just ensure any meat is fully cooked before adding it to the mixture.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them up in the oven until heated through. It’s a great option for quick breakfasts throughout the week!